The best distribution plan for independent authors changes as platforms make updates. Below is our most recent recommendation for self-publishing authors’ distribution.
Note that these are general recommendations. The best option for you may depend on your specific situation and goals.
Amazon KDP #
Formats: Paperback and ebook
You may also publish a case laminate hardcover through Amazon KDP.
Exclusivity: Do not enroll in KDP Select.
Royalties: 70%
Pricing: Use KDP’s royalty calculator.
IngramSpark #
Formats: Paperback and/or hardcover
Global Distribution: Enroll in global distribution.
Returns: No, do not accept returns.
If your marketing plan involves brick-and-mortar bookstores stocking your book, you will need to accept returns. Without returns allowed, readers will still be able to order your book through bookstores, such as B&N, but stores will be unlikely to stock the book on shelves.
Discount: Lowest possible for each market
If you elected to accept returns, you should offer a 55% wholesale discount. Otherwise, bookstores will not order your book.
Pricing: Use IngramSpark’s printing cost calculator.
Common Question: Why are my profit margins so thin after I apply the standard wholesale discount? Print-on-demand (POD) printing costs more per book than traditional offset printing. Independent authors simply cannot compete with the margins that traditional publishers can access by printing large runs.
Draft2Digital #
Formats: Ebook
Vendors: All vendors except those to which you have published directly, such as Amazon KDP
Pricing: D2D takes an additional 10% of the price you set, so factor that into your pricing considerations.
Note: Draft2Digital is an aggregator. It will make your ebook available to multiple vendors, saving you time over going direct to each one. However, your royalties will be reduced by D2D’s fee.
Additional Platforms #
Going direct to these platforms can be beneficial for your overall ebook reach. However, some independent authors find it difficult to manage more than the above platforms. Start with the above platforms, and progress to the following if/when you are comfortable. Note that this is not a comprehensive list of the available distribution platforms.
- Kobo
- Apple Books
- OverDrive
- Smashwords
